WITH much needed rain returning for the Bank Holiday Weekend, the Midsomer Norton Methodists' BDCA League season finished much as it had started - their final fixture being unfortunately scuppered by the weather.

The Meths had found it hard to compete with some strong Division 7 opposition this year - compounded by long-time skipper and run-machine Alex Nash moving on mid-season - recording only three victories on their way to tenth place in the final table.

But on a positive note, the arrival of new talent and the increased opportunities for others of the Methodists' batters should see the side being more competitive next season, under the leadership of newly appointed captain James Green.

A return to Division 8 should find the team playing a few more locally-based clubs, including Midsomer Norton 3rds (now promoted from Div 9E), Mells and Bishop Sutton - so travel times will be greatly reduced!

The wicket at Norton hill School is now much improved, thanks to the tireless work of Dave Sackett and Paul Evans (assisted by many of the wider squad), who again put in many hours with the mowers and rollers to finesse a playing surface which should give batters and bowlers alike the opportunity to express themselves going forward.

A big thank you, also, to all of this season's match-ball sponsors and player sponsors (Westsell, Mulberry, The Dental Implant Clinic & Purple Bricks), and to all the loyal, long-suffering supporters who followed the ups and downs of the club throughout the summer!

Next weekend's season finale (Saturday 5th September, 1pm start) will find a Methodists XI lining up against club captain Jim Eyles' hand-picked side at Midsomer Norton CC's Withies Lane HQ for their annual end of season contest. All are welcome to attend, with proceeds from the tea-time buffet going to a charity of his choosing.